Issue - meetings

Report of the Director of Urban Environment – To advise the Committee of an  outline proposal for the restructuring of the Environmental Crime service, in the Urban Environment Directorate, to create a new Street Enforcement Service.

The Committee considered a report setting out proposals for restructuring the Environmental Crime service to create a new Street Enforcement Service.

The restructuring of the service would allow a more broad based approach and greater area based working to be developed. It was envisaged that local action plans would be developed that would focus on Ward based priorities; a Street Enforcement Officer would also be designated to each Ward.

The Committee discussed the use of Fixed Penalty Notices and concern was expressed around the use income derived from these for essential services. In response to suggestions that the income derived from these should held separately and used to fund specific projects the Committee was advised that the Government requited Local Authorities use income from Fixed Penalty Notices within their mainstream budgets.

It was noted that the loss of income from Fixed Penalty Notices would result in a significant decrease in the funding available for services.

It was noted that local businesses and members of the public often complained about the way parking restrictions were enforced and there was agreement that, given the current economic climate, a more lenient approach may be appropriate.

RESOLVED:

1. That the content of the report be noted.

2. That the proposals for introducing a Street Enforcement Service, replacing the existing Environmental Crime Service be approved.

3. That a further report should be received following consultation with staff and unions reflecting how the results of this would be accommodated.